What is the difference between a 1955 and a 1956 Ford?
In broad terms, the 1956 Ford is a mild evolution of the 1955 model year: the same basic design and mechanical layout with subtle styling refreshes and expanded options. There isn’t a full redesign between these two years; differences are largely cosmetic and feature-driven.
Design and styling
Exterior appearance changes between 1955 and 1956 are primarily incremental, aimed at keeping the lineup feeling fresh without a ground-up redesign.
Exterior updates
The front fascia of 1956 models received a revised grille and bumper treatment that softened the 1955 look while preserving the overall silhouette. Some body styles gained updated chrome accents and badge placement to reflect the new year.
- Front end: Revised grille and bumper styling for a more modern look in 1956.
- Side trim and badges: Additional chrome or revised placement on select models.
- Rear details: Minor tweaks to taillight surrounds and trunk trim, with the overall shape remaining consistent with 1955.
Exterior changes were designed to refresh the appearance without altering the fundamental platform or design language.
Interior aesthetics
Inside the cabin, 1956 models generally carried over the 1955 layout but with refined trim and optional features that appealed to buyers seeking a touch more luxury.
- Instrumentation: Updated gauge faces and trim on some models, with variations by body style.
- Upholstery and trim: More deluxe materials offered in higher trim levels in 1956.
- Convenience features: Optional power accessories and creature comforts continued to expand in the 1956 line.
Interior updates focused on material quality and available options rather than sweeping changes to the dashboard layout.
Mechanical and performance
The two years share the same fundamental engine and drivetrain family, with only modest year-to-year differences tied to tuning, options, and model-level choices.
Powertrain and performance
Both years offered the same broad engine lineup (inline-sixes and V8 options), with horsepower ratings varying by model configuration. There was no wholesale engine redesign exclusive to 1956.
- Engines: Same general families carried over; individual horsepower figures depend on model and options.
- Transmissions: Manual and Fordomatic automatic transmissions remained available in both years.
- Drivetrain behavior: Core suspension and handling characteristics stayed in line with the era’s conventions, with minor refinements typical of mid-decade improvements.
In practical terms, you’re looking at a 1956 Ford that runs on the same mechanical backbone as the 1955, with small, model-specific enhancements rather than a major leap.
Chassis and safety equipment
Brake systems, suspension geometry, and chassis construction followed the period’s norms, with incremental improvements rather than a new platform.
- Chassis: Shared platform and wheelbase across the two years, with typical mid-cycle refinements.
- Brakes and ride quality: Adjustments common to 1950s models, aimed at improving reliability and comfort.
- Electrical and related systems: Largely in line with 1950s conventions; specifics varied by model and option package.
Mechanical changes between 1955 and 1956 were incremental, focused on refinement rather than a redesign of the driving fundamentals.
Model lineup and market context
For buyers and collectors, the 1955–1956 window represents a two-year design cycle with similar core offerings, but with certain trims and options updated in 1956.
- Core lineup: The same range of body styles—sedans, coupes, and wagons—appeared in both years, with 1956 offering some optional equipment tweaks.
- Model-specific differences: Specific trim levels and packages may differ between years, so exact feature lists can vary by model and body style.
If you’re evaluating a particular car, verify the exact equipment, trim level, and body style to understand the precise differences between the two years.
Summary
The 1956 Ford is best understood as a continuation of the 1955 design with targeted refinements rather than a new platform. Exterior refreshes, interior trim updates, and expanded options characterize the year-to-year shift, while the underlying mechanicals and layout remained largely consistent. For collectors or restorers, the key is to check the specific model, body style, and option list to identify the exact distinctions between a 1955 and a 1956 Ford.
